The process for buying property in France is relatively straight forward and is not much different to what an off plan investor would encounter in the UK.

Once a property has been decided upon a trusted local lawyer should be employed to help with all dealings/translations and the like. Once a contract is drawn up by a real estate agent or notary, a deposit of ten percent is paid. Once everything has been checked by the lawyer the signing is carried out by the buyer and seller. Once this is complete, the documents are notarised and the sale can be completed in full, with all outstanding fees paid. It should be noted that there are laws which prevent properties being left to whomever the owner may wish – there are ways around these laws, however, but they should be sorted before a purchase is carried out just to be sure.

Payable fees include applicable lawyer, estate agent and notary fees, usually coming to around 7.5 percent of the total cost. Other taxes and costs may be incurred on top of these charges.